How to Iron on Wax Paper Prints

About the Author

Mercedes Valladares is the founder of M721Organics and has been an independent designer for over 15 years. Her work experience commenced during college with manufacturers based in New York and Hong Kong. Her education includes LIM College, International Fine Arts College and design certification from the Paris Fashion Institute. She produces eco-crafting videos and writes recycling articles online.

Different methods exist to transfer original artwork onto fabric or garments, such as T-shirts. One effective method, the wax paper method, is an economical way to transfer designs because the waxy surface of the paper acts as a temporary adhesive when heated onto fabric. After transferring your creative designs onto fabric with wax paper, you might paint or embroider over the designs.

Things You'll Need

Place the waxy surface of the wax paper face down onto a piece of scrap paper or newspaper. The side of the paper that feels rough is the waxed surface.

Sketch a pencil design on the smooth surface of the wax paper. After sketching, use a dark marker to outline the pencil lines. You might also color in the sketch with the marker.

Cut out the positive areas of the wax paper stencil along the outlines. This is where you want the color to appear in your design. Use a crafting knife or rotary cutter to avoid any jagged edges, working on a cutting board to avoid damaging your work surface.

Empty water from the iron and adjust the setting to dry heat without steam. Set the iron to a high cotton setting and preheat it for approximately five minutes.

Position the wax side of the wax paper onto the fabric. Press the iron onto the smooth side of your wax surface. Do not glide the iron to avoid the stencil from lifting or tearing.

Lift the iron and set it aside. Allow the wax paper to cool an then lift it off the fabric slowly to reveal the transfer on the fabric.